sundance-communications.com/forum Forums Other TDM Phone Systems ESI Telephones & Systems Trouble with ribbon cables

i have the same problem. what i have found it is because the ribbons are hot and the plastics do not stay together. it sucks and i go slower when i remove them but i still break them too.

What does being certified by ESI have to with being able to remove a ribbon cable. and YES I am certified on all ESI products, and I don't remember the removal of ribbon cables be covered in class.

Steve, Did ESI teach you the 25 pair color code or did they take it for granted that you must have some basic skills or you wouldn't have gotten into the class.

All I'm saying is I have never damaged one yet and before I declare my lack of skills to my supplier I would make darn sure I was dealing with a product that actually requires enhancing as opposed to maybe the individual having difficulties should enhance their skills.

If enough of you guys out there send in the "enhancement request" we will end up with a whole gob of mod insert locations like a dang Partner ACS.

I have unplugged 50 or so, what am I doing different or is it what are you doing different?

John ... you must have talented fingers.

I think the number of comments here shows that they don't come out well and some enhancement is needed.

I like Keith's idea.

I have thought this over and feel the need to comment again. First and foremost I want to express an apology to anyone that may have felt insulted by my comments and especially to Steve Mull. I have seen many of your posts on ESI matters and I have great respect for your competency.

Now as far as the ribbon cable is concerned. Yes it does require the technician to be extra careful and exercise a bit of patience. I think this is actually a good thing. Since ESI gives out spares for free if you have some your protected. If someone that is an expert on something else and thinks he is an expert on ESI damages a ribbon cable then he has been caught in the trap of having to get in touch with one of us that are real ESI Techs to get a replacement ribbon cable.

Thus we will have the perfect situation: Real ESI Techs don't tear the thing up and the wanna-bees are hanging out on a weak limb.

I prefer they remain difficult!

I've seen a couple different styles of ribbon cables, but I believe ESI has always used one style.

The two styles I'm referring to are as follows:

1. Ribbon cable goes thru connector, and is cut flush with the edge of the connector, with the end pointing away from the ribbon cable. To my recollection, this is the style ESI uses. Pulling too hard on the ribbon itself will cause the connector to hinge open, and pull the ribbon out of the connector.

2. Ribbon cable goes thru connector, then turns back over the top of the connector, and is held by a plastic retainer clip, with the ribbon cut flush with the retainer clip, but with the end pointing back toward the ribbon cable. This provides a level of strain relief, although can still be ripped open with rough handling. If ESI isn't using this model, this is the one I recommend, as it seems to withstand a bit more abuse.

Justin